By Damilola Origbemisuyi, Akure
Over 200 Captains of the Nigerian Army have commenced practical promotion examinations to the rank of Major in Akure, the Ondo State Capital.
The officers who were drawn from all units and formations across the country will be at the 32 Brigade, Akure, till Thursday for the practical promotional examination.
Addressing the military men before the commencement of the examination, the Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army, Major General Kevin Aligbe, urged the captains to take the exam serious as the outcome would determine how far they would go in the Nigerian Army.
He said, “I would like to emphasize that your performance in this examination is a key determinant of your progress in the Nigerian Army. It is therefore important that you put in the seriousness and determination that would produce the best result.” I would also like to assure you of the absolute integrity and understanding of members of the examination panel. The serious-minded and hardworking candidates amongst you have nothing to fear.
“Please note that this examination is not just a mere assessment, but an assessment of your present level of proficiency as well as determination of your capabilities to undertake higher responsibilities that may be assigned to you now and in future.
“Fortunately, you are well-trained and most of you have been in one theatre of operation or the other, hence, it is presumed that you all had enough time to prepare for the examination. Therefore, there should be no excuse for failure, and I expect nothing short of 100 per cent pass in this Examination”, he said.
He further highlighted that performance in the examination would be a key determinant of the officers’ progress in the Nigerian Army, urging them to demonstrate seriousness and determination.
Major General Aligbe listed tactics, low intensity conflict, map reading, radio communication, and French language as key areas on which the officers would be assessed.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu expressed appreciation to Army Headquarters for selecting 2 Division to host the promotion examination.
Onubogu, however, warned the officers to be security conscious, citing the unpredictability of the security situation in Akure, and advised them to focus on the examination while avoiding unnecessary social interactions during the electoral season.
“The security situation in Akure is relatively peaceful but unpredictable. Therefore, I advise you to be vigilant and mindful of your movements. It is also advisable to follow instructions and use only the designated vehicles and buses provided for you,” he added.